Basic Corrections Officer: Certification Practice

What should you aim at when using a fire extinguisher on a fire?

1. The flames themselves

2. The fuel source

3. The smoke

4. Near the fire exit

The correct answer is: The fuel source

When using a fire extinguisher, aiming at the fuel source is crucial because it helps eliminate the material that is igniting the fire, ultimately stopping it from spreading. By focusing on the fuel source, you attack the root of the fire rather than just its visible flames. This approach is often more effective at extinguishing the fire than aiming at the flames themselves, which may not extinguish the fire completely and could allow it to reignite. Targeting the flames might provide temporary relief but does not address the source that is feeding the fire. Additionally, aiming at smoke does not contribute to putting out the fire, as smoke is a byproduct rather than the cause. It is also essential to be aware of the fire exit, but the primary goal is to extinguish the fire effectively by targeting the fuel.